YoungBEAN and YND Bataan launch Oplan Pagdadamayan with ‘Pasada at Lugaw’ to support struggling jeepney drivers

BALANGA CITY, BATAAN – In a heartfelt show of solidarity, the youth volunteers of Young Bataeños for Environment and Advocacy Network (YoungBEAN) and Youth for Nationalism and Democracy (YND) Bataan kicked off Oplan Pagdadamayan through their “Pasada at Lugaw” initiative on April 18, 2026.

The group distributed hot bowls of lugaw (rice porridge) to jeepney drivers waiting at the Balanga City Terminal—both those parked in the depot and actively ferrying passengers. This simple yet meaningful act aimed to provide immediate relief to drivers facing rising fuel costs, economic pressures, and daily hardships.

“We know that lugaw is just a small gesture compared to what jeepney drivers truly need right now,” said Eric Beren, lead organizer of YoungBEAN. “We feel their struggles deeply—their complaints about inflation, maintenance woes, and uncertain livelihoods. Even if it’s just through this warm meal, we hope to offer a bit of help and show that the youth stand with our frontline workers.”

Oplan Pagdadamayan reflects YoungBEAN and YND Bataan’s ongoing commitment to grassroots solidarity, linking environmental justice with community resilience. As youth advocates pushing for sustainable transport and fossil fuel phase-out, the groups see supporting public utility drivers as key to building a just transition for Bataan communities.

The initiative calls on fellow youth, local businesses, and government partners to join future drives. Donations of rice, ingredients, or volunteer time are welcome to sustain the effort. #